This video documents Lotus as they push the limits of electric vehicle performance by attempting a high-speed lap record at the Nürburgring in the Evija X.
Key Highlights:
The Machine: The Evija X is a specialized, track-focused prototype derived from the Lotus Evija road car. While it retains the core chassis, battery, and drive unit of the production model, it features significant aerodynamic upgrades, including a high-downforce body kit, a rear wing with DRS (Drag Reduction System), competition tires, and performance suspension. It generates over 2,000 horsepower and features 4,500 kg of downforce.
The Record Attempt: The team brought the Evija X to the legendary Nürburgring to test its capabilities. The process was highly rigorous, involving independent timing officials and a legal notary to verify the lap data. The project was technically challenging, requiring meticulous management of the 2.2 megawatt battery and cooling systems to ensure maximum power throughout the lap.
Performance: With professional driver Dirk Müller at the helm, the Evija X achieved a blistering lap time of 6 minutes and 24 seconds. This performance makes it one of the fastest cars ever to lap the circuit and arguably the fastest production-chassis vehicle on the track.
Technical Insights: The engineers discussed the complexities of running an EV on such a demanding circuit, highlighting the importance of preconditioning the battery with external chillers and dry ice to manage thermal performance, and the differences in driving an electric hypercar compared to traditional combustion-engined race cars.
Source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7x9amijnDt4&t=141s
Source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7x9amijnDt4&t=141s
